Pastoral Reflections

November 2019

Nov 25

December 1, 2019

What do you hope for? That is the fundamental question of Advent. As we enter into this season of hope, the scriptures and our liturgies help to shape our hopes and place them in a wider context of God’s hope for us and for our world. The Prophet Isaiah, John the Baptist, and Mary are central figures in our journey of hope these next four...
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Nov 24

November 24, 2019

As we gather this weekend to celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King, we look back with gratitude and look forward with great anticipation. Our gratitude flows from all that has been during this liturgical year which began on December 2, 2018. On Thursday of this week we will gather with family and friends to give thanks for the blessings in...
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Nov 17

November 17, 2019

Today, the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, is The World Day of the Poor. Pope Francis designated this Sunday two years ago as a day in which we would reflect each year on those who are poor and on our obligation to serve them. On the occasion of this day, the Pope sends a message to encourage us to see our relationship with poor people as vital...
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Nov 10

November 10, 2019

The summary of our parish mission is sketched on the windows in our narthex: Love God, Love Our Neighbor, Make Disciples. That is what we strive to do here at St. Joseph. This past week I spent time doing what I often ask penitents to do as a penance - offer a prayer of gratitude. I prayed this past week in gratitude for you, our parishioners,...
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Nov 3

November 3, 2019

Friends, this week we continue our stewardship of treasure renewal. I am grateful to Judith and Jesus Gomez for their reflections last Sunday. I found their story inspiring and it prompted me to deepen my own reflections on all the gifts God has given me and how I can make a return to the Lord in thanks. My reflections have also been informed...
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